As Chennai Super Kings (CSK) look for the replacement of Ravichandran Ashwin for the next season, it has been learned that the 5-time champions are looking to rope in Washington Sundar. Ashwin, who rejoined the franchise after nine years, featured in nine matches last season, taking seven wickets at an average of 40.42. There had been speculation about a potential trade involving Ashwin and Sanju Samson, but the veteran’s decision to retire from the IPL has effectively put those rumours to rest.
With Ashwin parting ways with the IPL, the CSK are looking for someone to step into his shoes. According to Tamil Samayam, the franchise is targeting Sundar and initiated discussions with the Gujarat Titans (GT) about a potential trade. The report further
suggested that GT have agreed to release Sundar without imposing any conditions.
Despite being in good form, Sundar struggled to find a consistent spot in Gujarat’s playing XI last season, featuring in only six matches. He bowled just 65 deliveries for two wickets and scored 133 runs at a strike rate of 166.25, averaging 26. Gujarat had signed him for ₹3.2 crore — the same amount CSK is expected to pay in the trade.
CSK, focusing on building a young, long-term core, went after experienced names like Rahul Tripathi, Vijay Shankar, Deepak Hooda, and Ravichandran Ashwin, none of whom made a major impact. This led to growing discontent among fans, reflected in a dip in viewership and engagement.
In response, the CSK management has reportedly decided to part ways with several underperforming seniors ahead of the upcoming mini-auction. Ravichandran Ashwin, notably, announced his retirement before being officially released by the team.
Traditionally, CSK have relied on experienced campaigners, building their core around players who served the team for nearly a decade. However, with veterans like Ambati Rayudu, Suresh Raina, and Dwayne Bravo retiring or stepping away after 2021, that long-standing formula has lost its effectiveness.
Rather than investing in young talent, the franchise opted for seasoned names like Robin Uthappa and Ajinkya Rahane — a strategy that failed to deliver consistent results.
